Places of interest South Devon

If you have young ones, then you’ll understand the benefits of having things to do and plenty of places to visit on holiday. The English Riviera, South Devon’s beautiful bay, is a popular destination with people like you, families and couples alike holidaying in the UK. In addition to safe, secure beaches and rolling countryside that’s just waiting to be explored, the area is full with things to see and do for visitors of all ages.

Take a look at some of our recommended attractions to visit below… all well worth a trip and Connect Cabs would be more than happy to assist you!

Capture a taste of the English Riviera below…

Dartmouth

With numerous festivals and events, exhibitions and markets taking place throughout the year, as well as a great range of attractions and activities both in Dartmouth and nearby, there is always something happening in this vibrant harbour town.

Hope Cove

Hope Cove’s beaches are great for families to visit. The mix of sand and rocky areas means that Mouthwell Sands in particular is great for sandcastles and sunbathing as well as exploring the rockpools. There are lifeguards on duty during the summer months too.

Burgh Island at Bigbury on Sea

Burgh Island, famously the inspiration for the setting of Dame Agatha Christie’s best-selling novel ‘And then there were none’, is an iconic tidal island across from the beautiful beaches of Bigbury-On-Sea and Bantham. Beautiful Bigbury Beach looks out to Burgh Island, a famous landmark linked to the mainland by a causeway at low tide.

Thurlestone

Thurlestone is a beautiful coastal village with one of the most dramatic coastlines in South Devon and well worth exploring. Originally a tiny coastal hamlet, Thurlestone is now home to a gloriously sited hotel, a popular golf course, and a variety of accommodation for permanent residents and visitors alike.

Gara Rock

Gara Rock is a key landmark on the South West Coastal Path, formerly the site featuring cottages for the coastguards. The beach at Gara Rock is accessed down a charming footpath which winds through meadows and woodland with a final scramble across rocks. The secluded cove below is carpeted with soft, white sand.

Paignton Zoo

This famous zoo is a great way to view animals in their natural habitat. The zoo’s emphasis is on conservation and environmental concerns and is sure to keep adults and kids alike amused and interested all day.

National Marine Aquarium

Located in Plymouth, around 35 minutes drive from Totnes is the National Marine Aquarium. One of Devon’s most popular attractions, the Aquarium includes several huge tanks featuring sharks, a turtle, sea horses, jelly fish and a wide range of other marine life.

Kents Cavern

These caves are officially the oldest recognised human dwelling in Britain. Take a stroll through the beautiful caverns and enjoy the same experience as your ancestors did, nearly half a million years ago.

Torre Abbey

Torre Abbey is the oldest building in Torquay. It has a story spanning 800 years and was once the most important Abbey of its kind in England, the brothers who lived here then were known as the White Canons. Following a massive three-year restoration project visitors can now explore the most ancient and hallowed parts of the building where some stunning finds have been unearthed.

Coleton Fishacre

Travel back in time to the Jazz Age at the holiday home of the D’Oyly Carte family. You can lose yourself in the magical 12-hectare (30-acre) garden: viewpoints give enticing glimpses out to sea, paths weave through glades past tranquil ponds, and tender plants from the Mediterranean, South Africa and New Zealand thrive in the moist and sheltered valley. A light, joyful atmosphere fills the rooms and music plays, echoing the family’s Gilbert and Sullivan connections.

Golden Hind at Brixham

Agatha Christie’s Greenway House

This is an extraordinary glimpse into the private holiday home of the famous and much-loved author Agatha Christie and her family. The relaxed and atmospheric house is set in the 1950s, and contains many of the family’s collections, including archaeology, Tunbridgeware, silver, botanical china and books.

Babbacombe Model Village

Approx 20 min drive from Totnes, you will discover the popular tourist attraction of the Babbacombe Model Village. With over 400 models making up a miniature West Country, and many special features throughout the year, it is a great place to spend a fun-filled afternoon, or a relaxing evening when the village is completely illuminated.

Crealy Adventure Park

Situated just outside of Exeter, you will discover a theme park designed for the younger members of the family. With fun, small versions of the popular rollercoaster, pirate ship and log flume, combined with grassy picnic areas, inside and outdoor play areas, Crealy Adventure Park , makes for a fantastic family day out!

Living Coasts

In July 2004, we saw Paignton Zoo’s latest addition in the form of ‘Living Coasts’, a unique attraction with underwater views, taking you to the coastal habitats around the world. Situated on Beacon Quay, with spectacular views across the bay, it is a short walk away from Torquay’s bustling marina.

Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway

Journey along the beauty of the Torbay coastline to the banks of the river Dart, on this full size steam railway. Enjoy a wonder around Dartmouth ‘s picturesque town and waterfront, then a relaxing ride back on the steam train or a gentle journey around the coastline by ferry.

Splashdown Quaywest Water Park

The only outdoor water park to be found in Devon , and certainly the wettest fun to be had during your holiday. Choose from 8 of the flumes, catering for a range of age groups, with a separate swimming and paddling area.

Woodlands Adventure Park

Situated just a few minutes away from Dartmouth you will discover the magic of Woodlands Adventure Park, a real treat for families, or the young at heart. The park has many exciting outdoor activities, enormous water slides, a toboggan run and many indoor and outdoor activity areas for all age groups.

Princess Theatre Torquay

The Princess Theatre is South Devon’s largest theatre with a seating capacity of 1,491. The theatre is a touring house which means that the shows that perform here are brought to us by independent production companies. As such, our diary offers a wide variety of live entertainment from operas and ballets to concerts, comedy and pantomime as well as touring West End musicals.

The English Riviera Wheel

Soaring high over the beautiful harbour in the heart of the English Riviera at Torquay, the wheel is situated within the famous Pavilion Gardens, next to The Princess Theatre, enjoying amazing views of the town and harbour. The English Riviera Wheel is completely silent in operation incorporating the latest in observation wheel technology and design. A trip on the wheel takes approximately 12 minutes.